How Do You Find the Dark Web?

The criminal groups that developed the malware gets a cut of the affiliates’ earnings, typically between 20% and 30%. IBM estimates that REvil’s profits in the past year were $81 million. The affiliates distribute the ransomware packages through the dark web. These attacks often include stealing victims’ data and threatening to release it on the dark web if the ransom isn’t paid.

For example, you can configure the CyberGhost VPN app to automatically connect to a desired VPN server and open the Tor browser app on launch. On average, I had really good browsing speeds — .onion sites loaded in 2–3 seconds, HD videos loaded in 5 seconds, and there was only minor buffering at the start of the videos. ExpressVPN is my favorite VPN for browsing pages on the dark web in 2024 — it supports Tor traffic, provides excellent security and privacy features, and has very fast speeds. There are different categories — my favorite one is Multiple Choice, where you need to pick the most popular autocomplete answer for a random Google search (like “is it ok to swim with …”).

How Can I Access The Deep And Dark Web Safely?

The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also has legitimate uses. If you’re curious about how to access the dark web, here’s a guide to help you get started.

What is the Dark Web?

Increased Cybercriminal Activity

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The dark web is a network of websites that are not indexed by search engines and can only be accessed using special software, such as the Tor browser. It is often used for illegal activities, such as buying and selling drugs, weapons, and stolen data. However, it also has legitimate uses, such as providing a platform for free speech, whistleblowing, and journalism in countries where these activities are censored.

What Is Dark Web And Why Do People Use It?

To function securely, the Tor network nodes need to be running the official Tor software. An attacker can add subverted nodes to the volunteer-run Tor network and cause various kinds of problems. Check out our guide on the best VPNs for the Dark Web for more info.

• Surface web search engines can’t access the dark web, but specialized dark web search engines can help you find what you’re looking for.
• These are websites that—for reasons both legal and illegal—exist in a world that’s intentionally hard to find.
• But on the other hand, the Dark Web also serves legitimate purposes.
• To get access to a forum, though, you need the exact .onion address because searches here are not exactly the same as standard Google searches.
• This negates the need to download, install, and run the Tor browser separately, and lets you access the Tor network without your ISP knowing.

How to Access the Dark Web

To access the dark web, you will need to download and install the Tor browser. Tor (The Onion Router) is a free software that allows you to browse the internet anonymously. It works by routing your internet connection through a series of volunteer-operated servers around the world, which makes it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.

Once you have installed the Tor browser, you can access the dark web by typing in the URL of a dark web site. Dark web sites typically have a .onion extension, and they can be found using directories such as the Hidden Wiki. Keep in mind that many dark web sites are scams or contain malware, so it’s important to exercise caution and use a reputable directory.

Although people use terms like the dark web, “deep web,” and “darknet” interchangeably, they don’t exactly mean the same thing. Like other parts of the internet, the dark web has scams and third parties trying to steal your data through phishing. As a deep web subsection, the dark web shares many characteristics. However, noteworthy differences exist in operation, scope, size, access methodology, applications, and security. Payment for these services is generally made using difficult-to-trace digital currency, such as Bitcoin. Operating Tor is largely similar to operating a web browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome.

Is it Legal to Access the Dark Web?

Accessing the dark web is not illegal in and of itself. However, many activities that take place on the dark web are illegal, and accessing these sites could potentially get you in trouble with the law. It’s important to remember that just because something is on the dark web doesn’t mean it’s legal or safe. Always use your best judgment and avoid engaging in illegal activities.

Conclusion

The dark web can be a fascinating and mysterious place, but it’s important to approach it with caution. By using the Tor browser and exercising good judgment, you can explore the dark web safely and securely. However, always remember that many activities on the dark web are illegal, and engaging in them could have serious consequences.